This historic Airbnb in the Algarve is perfect for an authentic trip to Portugal’s southern coast region
Ever since Airbnb launched its Historic Category, showcasing the most charming, culture-rich homes, we’ve been browsing these authentic stays and dreaming of spending a few nights in a holiday rental with a past. While ancient Scottish castles and Tuscan farmhouses went firmly on our wish list, there was one Airbnb in the Algarve that caught our attention as we searched for places to stay in the region famed for its striking coastline, cataplanas and Moorish architecture...
A top-rated Algarve Airbnb with dozens of positive reviews, Casa Salhoeira, is a traditional Portuguese farm house located around a 25-minute drive north of Faro, near the quiet town of Sao Bras de Alportel.
Ideal for countryside living and enjoying the lesser-known eastern Algarve, away from the crowds of Albufeira and Portimao, the three-bedroom Airbnb offers the right amount of remoteness, with a cluster of surrounding homes and your own slice of gorgeous countryside.
Found at the end of a small gravel road, the house’s first show-stopping feature is its mature garden, filled with trees, flowers and shrubbery. Designed for outdoor living, the Airbnb affords a 10-metre swimming pool with sun loungers, an outdoor shower, a comfortable outdoor lounge-style area complete with cushioned seating, and an outdoor kitchen with a dining table and barbecue (perfect for grilling the fresh fish you’ll find in the markets).
The white-washed casa has the Moorish clay tiled roof, typical Algarvian chimney and a weathervane, as well as the wooden shutters and stone surrounds you’ll see of typical Algarve homes.
Ideal for a multi-generational holiday (there is uneven paving in the garden and steps inside the property, in case you’re travelling with anyone who has reduced mobility) or a trip away with friends, the delightful casa has many historic features. The stone walls, terracotta tiled floor and beamed ceilings provide character, while there is antique furniture, a working fireplace at the heart of the living area and colourful Portuguese tiles in the showers and kitchen.
Two of the double bedrooms are in the main house, while the third en-suite room is found in a separate part of the Airbnb, just outside the main house, where there is a utility room containing all the essentials for comfortable living.
You’ll find everything you need for a week or two in the Algarve, including a washing machine, kitchen utensils and appliances for cooking, including a Portuguese cookbook as a thoughtful touch from the host, and an extra room that can be used as a dressing room or play room, if you’re travelling with children.
Alongside the things you’ll need for a comfortable stay, there is coastal-inspired art on the walls, international TV channels and plenty of spaces to unwind with a book, including a small selection of books if you run out of reading material.
With just a cafe in the area, Casa Salhoeira is just the spot for enjoying privacy and relaxation in the Algarve.
Previous guests love the Algarve Airbnb too, with one saying it's "one of the best houses ever rented in the Algarve" and another review reading: "This was our second visit to this beautiful house. Very well equipped kitchen, super spacious living space and bedrooms and a brilliant pool. It is very peaceful and private, can't wait to visit again!"
During your stay, you’ll want to make things all the more authentic by visiting the lesser-known towns and cities over the Algarve’s more popular attractions.
Around a 10-minute drive away, Sao Bras de Alportel is a typical Algarvian town with a laid-back feel. You’ll find traditional white-washed houses alongside some impressive buildings decorated with beautiful Portugal tiles and wrought iron balconies.
Don't miss a trip to Olhao, a wonderful city best visited on a Saturday when you can immerse yourself in the liveliness of the market. Housed in a building by Eiffel Tower architect Gustave Eiffel, the indoor market displays diverse seafood plucked from the Algarve's waters, and fruit and vegetables that grow in Portugal and beyond, including exotic guavas and mangoes.
While here, don’t miss a walk around the cobbled streets of the old town and when it comes to lunch, Vai e Volta has just one thing on the menu: all-you-can-eat grilled seafood for 15 euros per person.
Tavira is another highlight of the eastern Algarve. Straddling the River Gilão, the picturesque city has two main bridges and is a romantic setting to spend the day. Once you've taken in its views and enjoyed a spot of lunch, it's worth spending an afternoon on Baril Beach, which can be reached by a little train and is home to a 'cemetery of over 100 anchors'.
More of the best Airbnbs in the Eastern Algarve
Casa Domingos, near Loule
A four-bedroom design villa set among almond, olive and cork trees, this Airbnb in the Algarve is located between the town of Loule and Sao Bras de Alportel. It offers tranquility in the hills and an architect-designed space, with concrete floors and natural wood decor for warmth.
Pool Apartment at Casa Jardim, near Moncarapacho
Ideal for couples or a solo traveller in search of a pool apartment with friendly hosts nearby, this Airbnb is an excellent spot in spring, with an array of wildflowers setting the scene. You'll have your own private space in a modern villa and previous guests have praised the warm welcome by Jan, Nigel and house dog Gipsy.
Beach front, cute semi-detached house, Faro
Set right on the beach with direct access to the gorgeous sand of Praia de Faro, this Airbnb is the perfect place to relax and drift off to sleep with the sound of the waves. Sleeping six guests, it's ideal for a family, whether you're active types who like paddleboard adventures, or prefer to take it easy by lounging on the beach and at the beautiful Airbnb.
Toffy’s House Élégance cityview rooftop and pool, Tavira
Located in historic Tavira, this townhouse provides a great base for those who like to be in a town cente. The rooftop terrace and swimming pool offer an inviting space to relax after days out exploring and there are cute corners for unwinding with a book.
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